The American Land Title Association (ALTA), a national trade association representing members of the title insurance industry, announced that veteran land title insurance industry professional Christopher Abbinante has been named president for the 2011-2012 year.

“It is a privilege to represent an industry whose purpose is to protect consumers against legal challenges to their homeownership,” Abbinante said. “I am honored to serve as president of a growing and vibrant association, now representing more than 4,000 member companies. The American Land Title Association is committed to constantly improving its representation and service to our industry.”

The 11-member ALTA Board of Governors is responsible for creating association policy, managing the financial health of the association, and ensuring the overall welfare of the association.

According to a Nov. 1 release, Abbinante, formerly the president of Eastern Operations for Fidelity National Title Group, Inc., has been involved in the title industry for over 35 years. During that time, he has worked with agents and direct operations across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.

Abbinante started in the land title industry in 1975, working for a law firm in Chicago that also had a small title agency. In 1976, he joined Chicago Title, serving in many different capacities. In 2001, Chicago Title became part of the Fidelity National Financial Family of Title Companies. Abbinante now focuses on Fidelity’s Canadian operations as well as with U.S.-based operations located primarily in the eastern and central parts of the country.

“Chris is the right person to lead our association through the challenges we currently face. His talents as a title insurance executive are well regarded throughout the industry and he inspires confidence as we work to better serve consumers,” said Michelle Korsmo, chief executive officer of ALTA.